Gaborone: The Philippines has formally reopened its consular mission in Gaborone, Botswana following its temporary closure in March 2022. In a news release Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the inauguration was led by Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja.

According to Philippines News Agency, Baja stated that the Philippine government is committed to bringing consular services closer to the Filipino community in Botswana. She highlighted that the reopening of the consulate signifies a deepening of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Botswana, which has a long and rich history.

There are approximately 200 Filipinos in Botswana, as noted by the DFA. The majority are based in Gaborone and are employed as engineers, supervisors, business owners, medical professionals, teachers, missionaries, among others. Some have become Botswana nationals or are spouses of locals and other foreign nationals based in the country.

Annelin Vista, a citizen of Botswana with Filipino descent, will head the consulate as honorary consul. Her responsibilities will include assisting Filipino nationals residing in Botswana, promoting Philippine interests through trade, investment, and socio-cultural cooperation, as well as facilitating access to consular services.